Reclaiming the Skies and Waters: The Revival of Montenegro’s Seaplane Legacy
- Dragisa Raicevic
- Feb 27
- 14 min read
Updated: Mar 6
Montenegro’s coastline and inland waters are once again on the verge of playing a pivotal role in aviation history. Over a century ago, seaplanes operated from the very waters of the Bay of Kotor, Port of Bar area and Skadar Lake, making it one of the earliest locations in the world to embrace seaplane aviation. Today, our initiative seeks to breathe new life into this legacy, redefining aviation infrastructure, and introducing a sustainable model for modern seaplane operations.
Historical Foundations, Future Innovations
In 1913, the Tivat Arsenal housed one of the first military seaplane bases in Europe, later expanded into a fully developed hydro aviation center in Kumbor. This base was a cornerstone of seaplane operations in the Mediterranean, witnessing historic flights, groundbreaking aviation experiments, and critical military operations. Over the decades, technological advancements outpaced the infrastructure, leaving the once-thriving hydro base in dormancy.
With the creation of Porto Montenegro in the former Arsenal Tivat zone, as well as the developments of Luštica Bay and Porto Novi in the area of the former Seaplane Station Boka Base, Montenegro has been recognized as a luxury maritime hub. However, a crucial link is still missing—a modern amphibious aviation network that seamlessly connects the coastal and inland areas with efficient, rapid, and scenic aerial transport.
A Pragmatic Approach to Seaplane Revival
The project isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a comprehensive initiative built on real aviation needs and modern challenges. Our technical study on seaplane operations focuses on:
Defining designated water operating areas near strategic points, particularly around Tivat International Airport and other key locations.
Testing and adapting seaplane operations to modern aviation safety standards, including integration with maritime and air traffic control protocols.
Developing a scalable water aerodrome infrastructure, modeled after the Malé International Airport seaplane terminal in the Maldives, which efficiently handles hundreds of seaplane operations daily.
Optimizing logistics for tourism, emergency response, and aerotechnical applications, ensuring seaplane transport becomes a viable, long-term solution rather than just an experimental endeavor.
Strategic Locations & Operational Framework
1. Tivat Water Aerodrome Initiative
Located adjacent to Tivat International Airport, our proposed seaplane base is designed to function as a complementary terminal, reducing strain on road infrastructure while introducing a more efficient, scenic mode of transport.
Key elements of this water aerodrome include:
Seaplane-specific docking infrastructure, with modular, expandable facilities.
A floating passenger terminal, offering rapid transfers from aircraft to boat shuttles.
Full integration with Montenegro’s maritime and aviation control authorities to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Use of sustainable and electric-powered floating platforms, minimizing environmental impact.
This historic base was once home to dozens of seaplanes, hosting various models such as Dornier, Ikarus, SIAI-Marchetti, Lohner, Hansa-Brandenburg, Fleet, Hanriot, Short Cuty Shark.... It played a crucial role in early seaplane aviation, serving as a strategic hub for hydroaviation operations in the Adriatic.
2. Seaplane Operations in the Bay of Kotor
The calm waters of the Bay of Kotor provide a natural safe zone for seaplane landings, making it an ideal launch point for tourist flights, aviation support and surveillance operations and monitoring, and intercity connections. Key operational zones include:
Seaplane Connectivity and Future Passenger Transport Network
The Sustainable Water Aerodromes Network (SWAN) aims to establish a comprehensive and efficient seaplane transportation system, enhancing both tourism and passenger transport across the Adriatic-Ionian region. This initiative will not only shorten travel times but also provide scenic, efficient, and sustainable air transport options, linking coastal, lake, and mountain regions.
Key Seaplane Routes and Connections
Domestic and Regional Scenic and Transportation Routes
Tivat – Kumbor - Herceg Novi – Dubrovnik Croatia Corridor A breathtaking scenic flight over Montenegro’s most stunning UNESCO-listed landscapes, offering a seamless air link between the Bay of Kotor and Dubrovnik.
At the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, standing as a guardian and a witness to Montenegro's hydroaviation history, is Fort Mamula—once a fortress, now the luxurious Mamula Island hotel 
History Meets Today - Lohners over Fort Mamula in 1913 Tivat – Skadar Lake – Ulcinj - Durres Albania and Corfu Greece Corridor A direct air route connecting coastal tourism hubs with Montenegro’s largest freshwater lake, ideal for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts.
Ulcinj's "aerodrome" in MontAdria style – when a meadow transforms into an airfield with mowed grass, marked and zoned surfaces, and full support teams in place Tivat – Tara Canyon – Žabljak – Plužine and Piva Canyon Water Aerodrome Bosnia and Serbia Corridor The first direct air link between the Montenegrin coast and its mountainous north, connecting with the world-famous Piva and Tara rivers' rafting and adventure tourism programs, reducing travel time from several hours to just 20–30 minutes.
MontAdria Caravan at the breathtaking Piva Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon of the Colorado River Tivat – Berane Airport – Kolašin – Plav Lake A strategic air corridor enabling fast connections between Montenegro’s coastline and its premier mountain destinations, supporting both tourism and regional mobility.
MontAdria landed at Northern Montenegro's Berane Airport, a site awaiting full reconstruction and redevelopment
International Connections from Budva Seaplane Base (C-208 Amphib.)
The following international airports are accessible from Budva via seaplane, significantly reducing travel time compared to traditional road transport:
Destination | Distance | Flight Time |
Podgorica | 40 km | 00:09 |
Tivat | 20 km | 00:04 |
Dubrovnik, Croatia | 60 km | 00:13 |
Split, Croatia | 240 km | 00:52 |
Belgrade, Serbia | 320 km | 01:09 |
Skopje, North Macedonia | 220 km | 00:47 |
Bari, Italy | 220 km | 00:47 |
Naples, Italy | 420 km | 01:48 |
Pescara, Italy | 380 km | 01:38 |
Corfu, Greece | 310 km | 01:05 |
Sarajevo, Bosnia | 180 km | 00:39 |
Planned Seaplane Base Network in Montenegro
In addition to international airport connections, a network of seaplane bases is being developed within Montenegro to enhance regional connectivity:
Seaplane Base | Distance from Budva | Flight Time (C-208) |
Budva | - | - |
St. Stefan | 7 km | 00:01 |
Plav (Plav Lake) | 100 km | 00:20 |
Bar | 38 km | 00:07 |
Zeta Vranjina | 38 km | 00:07 |
Plužine (Piva Lake) | 100 km | 00:20 |
Ulcinj | 65 km | 00:14 |
Tivat | 22 km | 00:04 |
Kotor | 20 km | 00:04 |
Herceg Novi | 35 km | 00:06 |
Mamula Island | 30 km | 00:05 |
Luštica Bay | 18 km | 00:03 |
Functional and Non-Functional Airfields for Future Development
Montenegro currently has several operational airfields, as well as non-functional ones that have the potential to be developed into key aviation hubs, supporting both seaplane and fixed-wing aircraft operations.
Existing Functional International Airports (with example calculations of distance and flight time from Budva using the C-208 Amphibian):
Podgorica Airport (ICAO: LYPG) – 40 km / 00:09
Tivat Airport (ICAO: LYTV) – 20 km / 00:04
Existing Functional Airfields:
Podgorica Sport Airfield (ICAO: LYPO) – 40 km / 00:09
Nikšić Airfield (ICAO: LYNK) – 55 km / 00:12
Airports/Airfields to be redeveloped for future operations:
Berane (ICAO: LYBR) – 110 km / 00:24
Ulcinj Airfield – 65 km / 00:14
Žabljak Airfield (project) – 100 km / 00:22
Pljevlja Airfield (project) – 130 km / 00:28
Bar Airport (project) - 54 km / 00:10
Seaplane Operations for Tourism and Passenger Transport
This seaplane network is designed not only to support tourism and scenic flights but also to establish a practical alternative for passenger transport, reducing travel times and offering direct aerial connections between key tourist destinations and remote regions. With seaplane operations integrated into Montenegro’s infrastructure, the country can enhance its tourism appeal, ease traffic congestion, and provide faster and more sustainable travel options.
The MontAdria initiative continues to drive these developments, coordinating efforts with government agencies, investors, and aviation stakeholders to make this vision a reality.
Phase One: Test Flights & Waterway Monitoring
To validate safety, infrastructure feasibility, and environmental impact, we conducted preliminary hydrodynamic tests using jet skis, simulating seaplane movements in the designated operational area. Now, we are moving forward with:
Real-time pilot trials on multiple amphibious aircraft types, including:
Cessna U206 Amphibian (medium-range, general aviation seaplane on floats)
Icon A5 Light Sport Amphibian (short-range, high-performance flying boat)
Defining new airspace corridors for seaplanes, ensuring safety compliance with Montenegro’s aviation authorities (SMATSA, ACV).
Establishing safe zones and defining operational water surfaces, taking into account traffic density, water operations conditions, wave height, and wind patterns to choose a possible location for Montenegro's first certified water aerodrome This is going to be conducted in collaboration with UPSUL (Maritime Safety Administration), Maritime Faculties of Kotor and Bar, and the Port Authorities of Kotor and Bar. and JP Morsko Dobro.
Developing “Follow Me” water escort operations, where jetskis guide incoming seaplanes, mirroring ground operations at international airports.
Seaplane OPeratingg Area Tivat Concept
Phase Two: Building Montenegro’s First Mobile Seaplane Terminal
The next key step in our project is the deployment of a mobile, self-sustaining floating terminal, which comprises:
Electric-powered support vessels for eco-friendly ground handling.
Integrated meteorological and LIDAR systems, feeding pilots real-time wave height, wind, and visibility data.
Fully modular floating docks, capable of expanding to accommodate multiple aircraft simultaneously.
Emergency and SAR readiness, ensuring seamless coordination with maritime safety teams.
This mobile floating terminal will act as a moving air traffic control station for seaplane operations, bringing advanced weather monitoring and safety technologies directly to remote water aerodromes.
Regulatory and Institutional Cooperation
We have engaged in extensive discussions with key Montenegrin institutions, including:
Maritime Safety Administration (UPSUL)
Civil Aviation Authority (ACV)
SMATSA Air Traffic Control
Ministry of Interior and SAR Operations Unit
Enviromental Protecting Agency
Public Enterprise for Coastal Zone Management (Morsko Dobro)
Our goal is to ensure that seaplane operations comply with both maritime and aviation regulations, fully adhering to Montenegro's national transport policies, protecting the environment, and promoting high ecological standards through new developments. First Attempt to Revive Seaplane Aviation in Montenegro: 2013 International Seaplane Flight from Brindisi to Bar The revival of seaplane aviation in Montenegro took its first serious steps back in 2013-2014 under the EU IPA INTERREG project ADRI SEAPLANES. As part of this initiative, the first international amphibious seaplane flight was successfully conducted with a Cessna 208 Amphibian, connecting Brindisi (Italy) to the Port of Bar (Montenegro).
This achievement showed that seaplanes could be successfully incorporated into the region's transportation system, setting the stage for the regulatory, operational, and infrastructure developments required for sustainable seaplane operations in the Adriatic.
World-First Demonstration of Amphibious Aviation Giants at MontAdria Seaplane Regatta
One of the major highlights of MontAdria was a groundbreaking aviation demonstration—marking the first time in the world that two legendary amphibious aircraft, the KODIAK 100 and the Cessna C-208 Caravan Amphibian, performed parallel operations in a live event.
These flights were conducted by elite pilots and dedicated seaplane aviation enthusiasts, such as ATPL captains from Lufthansa and Condor, Mr. Christian Weidner and Mr. Daniel Boden, who are also captains with Scandinavian Seaplane, as the highly experienced operators of the KODIAK 100.
Meanwhile, the Textron Aviation aircraft, generously provided thanks to the courtesy and tremendous support of Regional Director Mrs. Maja Wazniewicz, and equipped with WipAire floats, was represented by Steve Zaucher, who also participated in the MontAdria Seaplane Regatta. The aircraft was flown by none other than The Flying Bulls’ Chief Pilot, Mr. Raimund Riedmann, and Red Bull Air Race World Champion, Mr. Matthias Dolderer.
The demonstration took place at Porto Montenegro, illustrating exactly how a fully integrated seaplane terminal should function. This event was a major milestone for amphibious aviation and proved how seamlessly seaplane operations can be incorporated into high-end marina environments.
The success of these flights was made possible through the full support and coordination of all relevant regulatory agencies, including:
Civil Aviation Agency of Montenegro (ACV)
Maritime Safety Administration (UPSUL)
Air Traffic Control (SMATSA)
Harbor Master’s Office of Bar and Kotor
Public Enterprise for Coastal Zone Management (Morsko Dobro)
Other key maritime and aviation stakeholders
MontAdria Seaplane Regatta 2025: The Next Evolution
The upcoming MontAdria International Seaplane Regatta 2025 marks a significant milestone—our 5th anniversary. This year’s regatta will not only showcase historic and modern seaplane technologies but also:
Demonstrate real-world seaplane operations in Montenegrin waters.
Introduce next-generation amphibious aircraft with hydrogen-electric propulsion.
Conduct official water aerodrome testing in coordination with aviation regulators.
This regatta is not just an event—it is a stepping stone toward making Montenegro a premier destination for seaplane travel.
A New Chapter in Montenegro’s Aviation History
Montenegro, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich aviation heritage, and growing tourism sector, is uniquely positioned to become a leader in European seaplane travel. Our vision is clear—to establish a sustainable, efficient, and fully operational seaplane network, bridging the past with the future.
The infrastructure is taking shape. The partnerships are forming. The first flights are on the horizon.
Join us in this journey. Montenegro’s seaplane era is returning—and it’s just the beginning.
For inquiries, collaborations, and investment opportunities: info@montadria.me www.montadria.me Reviving Montenegro's Seaplane Aviation: A Historic Initiative for a Modern Future
We have completed a technical study on the designated water surface for seaplane operations in Montenegro. This initiative is deeply rooted in history—112 years ago, this very location was used for seaplane operations from the nearby Tivat Arsenal seaplane base (now Porto Montenegro). Later, the base was moved to Kumbor, where one of the largest seaplane bases in the world was established, playing a crucial role in aviation history.
A Vision to Restore and Modernize Seaplane Aviation
In honor of this rich legacy, we have launched efforts to reintroduce seaplane aviation in Montenegro, not only to enhance tourism and infrastructure but also to improve transport efficiency and introduce aerotechnical applications such as:
Search and Rescue (SAR) operations
Aeroecological monitoring
Maritime traffic surveillance and arial surveys
Inspired by the Maldives Model
The selected operational water area is located near Tivat International Airport, aiming to create a seaplane hub similar to Malé International Airport in the Maldives, where dozens of Twin Otter seaplanes provide essential transport for tourists. A similar but smaller-scale Water Terminal was recently built adjacent to Tivat Airport, designed to alleviate road traffic congestion during peak summer months by offering a fast maritime transport solution.
During one of the MontAdria Seaplane Regatta, we had the honor of hosting Mr. Mohamed Raaidh, the Director of the National Tourism Organisation of the Maldives, who shared his insights and experiences on how seaplane operations are seamlessly integrated into their tourism industry, providing invaluable knowledge on how Montenegro could develop a similar sustainable and efficient seaplane transport network.
Innovative Approach to Seaplane Operations
To minimize water taxiing time, we will introduce a support boat with a specialized inflatable platform, allowing seaplanes to dock directly with a boat for passenger transfers. Additionally, jetskis will act as "Follow Me" vehicles, guiding seaplanes—similar to airport ground handling.
Developing Montenegro’s First Mobile Seaplane Terminal
For the next phase, we have designed an electric-powered mobile terminal featuring:
Real-time LIDAR water surface and meteorological scanning for safe landings
Wind and wave height calculations for pilot guidance
Audio-visual safety signals for maritime traffic
Modular inflatable platforms to create a flexible mini-seaplane port
This "floating control tower" will accommodate multiple seaplanes simultaneously, establishing a sustainable and scalable water aerodrome infrastructure—
the first of its kind not only in Montenegro but also globally.
Historic First Steps Toward a Certified Water Aerodrome
Currently, Montenegro has no certified water aerodromes yet. Our test flights—coordinated with all relevant institutions—will mark the first serious step toward establishing a permanent seaplane network in the Bay of Kotor.
Montenegro’s Future as a Seaplane Destination
Malé Airport in the Maldives perfectly integrates commercial flights with an extensive seaplane terminal, offering seamless connections to remote islands. We envision a similar system in Montenegro, where tourists landing in Tivat can reach any part of the country by seaplane in just 15–30 minutes—whether along the coast or deep into the scenic mountains and lakes of the north.
A Legacy Recognized by the World
During previous MontAdria Seaplane Regattas, we had the honor of hosting Mr. Mohamed Raaidh, Director of the Maldives National Tourism Association, who was amazed by Montenegro’s natural beauty and aviation potential. His insights further validated our vision to restore seaplane operations in a region that historically played a significant role in amphibious aviation.
No matter the experience, age, or flight hours, MontAdria's unique spirit and breathtaking seaplane operations proved irresistible—even to the most seasoned captains. Among them was Michael Tragarz, a true aviation legend with over 30,000 flight hours as a Captain for American Airlines and a certified flight instructor (FI) on nearly every major airliner. Distance was no obstacle—Michael traveled all the way from Arizona to Montenegro, bringing his unmatched expertise and passion to the MontAdria International Seaplane Regatta. As the proud owner of a retro amphibious SeaBee, he added a special touch of history and authenticity to the event, while his energy and camaraderie elevated the entire experience. From the skies to the waves, his presence proved that the love for seaplane adventures knows no boundaries!
Our Aviation Partners
This initiative would not be possible without the expertise and enthusiasm of our partners:
European Seaplane Association
AEROEXPRESS (Hungary)
Capt. Márton Szechey – Chief Pilot at WizzAir Airline with 15,000+ flight hours
Capt. Imre Farkas – Experienced aviator and glider pilot champ
Mr. Daniel Somogy – Owner of AEROEXPRESS and key supporter of the project
Scandinavian Seaplanes (Norway)
Capt. Daniel Boden - CEO, Condor AirLine Captain with 15,000+ flight hours
Aeroclub Como (Italy)
CFI Cesare Baj - ex. President, a highly experienced seaplane pilot and professional and expert advisors in seaplane aviation
CFI Francesco Cerada - Chief Flight Instructor, one of the most experienced seaplane pilots and expert advisors in seaplane aviation.
Aviazzione Marittima Italiana
Mr. Orazio Frigino, President - A passionate enthusiast of Seaplane Aviation and the main initiator of the SWAN EU IPA INTERREG project in 2023 in Italy and Greece FI Graziano Mazzolari - One of the most experienced seaplane pilots and expert advisors in UL seaplane aviation.
Hellenic Seaplane Association (Greece)
Capt. Kostas Rossidis - President and one of the most expirienced Ryanair AirLine Captain with 20,000+ flight hours and initiator of the SWAN EU IPA INTERREG project in 2023 in Italy and Greece
ADRI SEAPLANES EU IPA INTERREG Mr. Mauro Calvano - President at Airways Aviation a passionate enthusiast of Seaplane Aviation and the main initiator of the ADRI SEAPLANES EU IPA INTERREG project in 2014 in Italy and Montenegro
Capt. Andrew Kennedy - Captain at Zimex Aviation and Participant of the ADRI SEAPLANES EU IPA INTERREG project in Montenegro and Italy in 2014, one of the most experienced seaplane pilots and expert advisors in seaplane aviation.
A Multi-Aircraft Testing Approach
Test operations will include:
Cessna U206 Amphibian on floats
Icon A5 Light Sport Amphibian flying boat
Various seaplanes covering different weight categories
Aligning with Aviation and Maritime Regulations
Our proposed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) adhere to both Montenegro’s Air Navigation Law and Maritime Safety Regulations, ensuring compatibility with international best practices. Additionally, air traffic control will oversee operations, providing full situational awareness.
Supporting Infrastructure
We are grateful for the logistical and technical support of Water Sports Center Tivat, which plays a key role in this project.
MONTADRIA 2025: A Special 5th Anniversary Celebration
The MontAdria International Seaplane Regatta 2025 will mark its 5th anniversary with a historic expansion of our seaplane project. This year’s event will feature:
Warbird seaplanes
Next-generation amphibious aircraft with hydrogen-electric propulsion
Ultra-low emission and near-silent seaplane technology
This is just the beginning—we invite all aviation enthusiasts, investors, and institutions to join us in shaping the future of seaplane aviation in Montenegro!
Author: Dragisa Raicevic
MSc. in Airborne Geophysics, FI, SEA President of the Organizing Committee of the International Seaplane Regatta MONTADRIA. Vice President of European Seaplane Association For partnerships and inquiries, contact us at: 📧 info@montadria.me🌍 www.montadria.me
Fly&Sail With Us!
Let’s bring seaplane aviation back to Montenegro—where it all began!
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